[Excerpts from Nov. 25th CCME Press Release]
Canadian environment ministers agreed today to work together to improve water and air quality, place more emphasis on children’s health and the environment, and address electronics waste and the potential impacts of climate change.

Ministers agreed on the many benefits of taking collaborative and consistent action to address environmental issues, and on the importance of ongoing technical work such as the establishment of national standards and guidelines.

Building on their 2001 commitment to clean, safe and secure water for all Canadians, ministers reaffirmed water issues as a priority, and agreed to explore conservation measures, including economic considerations, public education and the need for better information.

They agreed to work together to develop a national strategy for harmonized management of municipal wastewater effluents. The strategy will be based on the principles of flexibility, respect for jurisdictional responsibilities, and a single-window approach for municipalities. It will also recognize the varying challenges and significant costs of implementation.

Full Release
Related Govt. of Manitoba Press Release
Backgrounders [including Municipal Wastewater Effluents (PDF)]

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